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Contract Welding Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SGS is currently hiring for two CWI (Welding Inspector) roles supporting multiple projects across New York and Pennsylvania . Role 1: * Start: May 8 * Duration: Through mid-October * Scope: Valve ...

SGS is currently hiring for two CWI (Welding Inspector) roles supporting multiple projects across New York and Pennsylvania . Role 1: * Start: May 8 * Duration: Through mid-October * Scope: Valve ...

SGS is currently hiring for two CWI (Welding Inspector) roles supporting multiple projects across New York and Pennsylvania . Role 1: * Start: May 8 * Duration: Through mid-October * Scope: Valve ...

SGS is currently hiring for two CWI (Welding Inspector) roles supporting multiple projects across New York and Pennsylvania . Role 1: * Start: May 8 * Duration: Through mid-October * Scope: Valve ...

Welding Instructor

Bristol, PA

$48K - $62K/yr

Welding Instructor - Evening Program Bucks County Community College is seeking experienced welding ... These contract-based positions offer flexible schedules and the opportunity to train adult learners ...

SGS is currently hiring for two CWI (Welding Inspector) roles supporting multiple projects across New York and Pennsylvania . Role 1: * Start: May 8 * Duration: Through mid-October * Scope: Valve ...

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Contract Welding information

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$24

$41

$56

How much do contract welding jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract welding in the United States is $41.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.38 and $47.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Contract Welding vs Pipe Welding?

AspectContract WeldingPipe Welding
CertificationsWelding certifications (e.g., AWS, CWI)Welding certifications (e.g., AWS, CWI)
Work EnvironmentVarious sites, including construction, manufacturing, maintenancePrimarily on pipelines, oil & gas, industrial plants
Industry UsageConstruction, manufacturing, maintenance projectsOil & gas, water, and gas pipeline industries
Job ScopePerforming welds on different materials and structuresSpecialized welding on pipes and pipelines

Contract Welding involves performing welds across various industries and structures, often on different materials, while Pipe Welding focuses specifically on welding pipes, mainly in the oil, gas, and pipeline sectors. Both roles require similar certifications but differ in work environment and scope.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract Welder, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Welder, you need proficiency in various welding techniques, blueprint reading, and a relevant welding certification or apprenticeship. Familiarity with tools such as MIG, TIG, and arc welding equipment, as well as safety systems like OSHA regulations, is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and strong problem-solving skills help distinguish top performers in this field. These skills and qualities ensure high-quality, safe welds that meet project specifications and deadlines across diverse work environments.

How much do contract welders charge per hour?

Contract welders typically charge between $20 and $50 per hour, depending on experience, certification level, and the complexity of the project. Rates can vary based on location, specialization (such as TIG or MIG welding), and whether the work is performed on-site or in a shop setting.

Can you make 300k as a welder?

Contract welders with specialized skills, certifications, and experience in high-demand industries such as oil and gas or aerospace can potentially earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with overtime and project bonuses. However, typical salaries for welders are generally lower, and reaching this level usually requires advanced expertise, union membership, or working in remote or hazardous environments. Most welders do not reach this income level without significant specialization and experience.

What is contract welding?

Contract welding is a service where a welder or welding company is hired on a contractual basis to complete specific projects or tasks for a client. This can include anything from fabricating metal structures to repairing equipment. Contract welders may work on-site at a client’s location or in their own workshops, depending on the project requirements. This arrangement allows businesses to access specialized welding skills without committing to hiring full-time staff. It is commonly used in industries like construction, manufacturing, and shipbuilding.

How does a contract welder typically collaborate with other professionals on a job site?

Contract welders frequently work alongside other tradespeople such as fabricators, engineers, and project managers. Effective communication is essential for staying aligned with project specifications and timelines, especially as changes or challenges arise on the job. Welders are often responsible for interpreting blueprints and coordinating with other teams to ensure their work integrates seamlessly with broader construction or manufacturing processes. Building strong working relationships can help prevent delays and promote a safe, efficient work environment.
More about Contract Welding jobs
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What states have the most Contract Welding jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Welding jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Contract Welding jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Welding jobs are:

Welding (CWI) Inspector - Contract

SGS U.S. Holding Inc.

Albany, NY

$31/hr

Contractor

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Company Description

We are SGS - the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company. We are recognized as the global benchmark for sustainability, quality and integrity. Our 99,600 employees operate a network of 2,600 offices and laboratories, working together to enable a better, safer and more interconnected world.

Job Description

SGS is currently hiring for two CWI (Welding Inspector) roles supporting multiple projects across New York and Pennsylvania.

Role 1:

  • Start: May 8
  • Duration: Through mid-October
  • Scope: Valve replacement projects in Western NY and two larger compressor station modifications in Genesee, PA

Role 2:

  • Start: May 4
  • Duration: Through September
  • Locations: Utica, Fort Plain, and Albany, NY, with one project in Genesee, PA

Project Overview:

  • Projects span Albany, Western NY, Ohio, Texas, and Pennsylvania
  • Includes valve replacements and compressor station work
  • Key locations include Perry, NY and Silver Springs, NY (7-8 miles apart), grouped with the Genesee site
  • Valve projects are typically short-term (1-2 weeks each)

The Welding Inspector will need to review Purchaser's specifications and procedures for the above-mentioned tasks and ensure the contractor performs these tasks in compliance with the specification and procedures. The Welding Inspector will need to work with the contractor as a team to complete the necessary work. 

Responsibilities

Performs duties as designated by the Project Supervisor/Chief Inspector in accordance with the job requirements outlined in the Purchaser's specifications.
Prepares all appropriate reports, cataloging the day's welding progress, repairs, and supplemental information. These reports become records of construction.
The following reports shall be completed and maintained:

Welding Inspector's Daily Report
Qualified & Disqualified Welders List
Welder Qualification Record
Weld Log

Qualifications
  • Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) required
  • Experience with valve replacements, station work, or M&R piping preferred
  • Must have experience with Mark up drawings (redlines)
  • Track: weld locations, changes made in the field, materials used, ensure everything matches what was installed, help create the final turnover package

The Welding Inspector will be expected to have the following equipment:

  • Digital Camera for taking daily pictures as documentation of inspected activities.
  • A digital or analog type of meter for checking amperage and voltage.
  • A stop watch and tape for checking travel speed.
  • A Temp. Stick or handheld temperature gun for checking the pipe temperature.
  • Diameter or Pi Tape
  • Digital or Dial Caliper
  • Inside Diameter Micrometer
  • Outside Calipers
  • Pipe Bevel and Land Gage
  • Magnifying Glass
  • Paint Markers
  • Hand Held Mirror
  • Calculator

Schedule: 
Guaranteed 50 hours/week (5x10s)
Most contractors are working 6x10s, offering additional hours

Travel:
Mileage + per diem provided for candidates outside a 50-mile radius

Pay:
$31.00/hour

Additional Information

SGS is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and as such we recruit, hire, train, and promote persons in all job classifications without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression and Indigenous status, or any other characteristics protected by law.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodations. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required.
This job description should not be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or requirements, but a general description of the job. Nothing contained herein restricts the company's rights to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
Accommodations are available on request for qualified candidates during each stage of the recruitment process.
Please note that candidates applying for Canadian job openings should be authorized to work in Canada.